Karen (AKA Gommy) completes this spectacular quartet. Karen’s babies are all grown up now.  They are social, athletic, accomplished, hard-working, fun, talented, and loving.  What wonderful results!

Karen’s current chapter as “Gommy” is a perfect fit!  She’s the kind of Grandmother than every kid would run too.  She has a smile inherited by all four of her adorable grandchildren.  Karen has a sugariness that has crossed generations.

Karen, “Make them work for special things they want. It doesn’t hurt them to work a little.  They will appreciate what they’ve acquired so much more.” Tip 9

I too applied the ‘make him work for it’ model Karen mentions in tip #9.  I think it’s a wonderful approach and has many layers in terms of teaching. As soon as Michael received allowance he started to pay for special things.  If he wanted something I felt was a bit indulgent, I would ask, “What are you willing to pay?” From there, I could gauge importance and his interest. It’s a great exercise building critical thinking, responsibility, cooperation, prioritizing, forethought, and independence.

Michael quickly learned the art of negotiation, a skill is highly developed today. At times I would agree to pay ½, sometimes all, depending on his argument.

Michael did work for the special things, for most things actually. Even just last week, there was something I wanted him to try, it was very expensive. I offered to pay ½. He laughed and said, “It’s ok Mom, if I want it I’ll pay.”

He’s all grown up now!

Thanks Gommy!

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